Will Howard’s final summer as a college quarterback is behind him. Now comes the real test. Before Pittsburgh Steelers training camp begins, the 23-year-old rookie carved out time for what might be his last carefree getaway, and girlfriend Skyler Skoglund made sure fans didn’t miss a moment of their lakeside retreat in Minnesota.
The scenes from Lutsen painted a picture of calm before the storm. Howard, still adjusting to life as a sixth-round draft pick, looked completely at ease as Skoglund documented their escape from the pressures that await him in Pittsburgh.
How Did Will Howard Spend His Final Days Before NFL Training Camp?
Howard, selected 185th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, used the Minnesota getaway to disconnect from football’s demands. The former Ohio State quarterback appeared relaxed and content in the photos, a stark contrast to the mental and physical grind that awaits him as he transitions to the NFL.
Skoglund’s Instagram posts offered fans a rare glimpse into the personal side of the 6’4″, 237-pound passer. The images showed the couple perched on rocks surrounded by water, with Howard sporting a Steelers cap and casual summer attire. Additional shots captured their friends tossing a football around, Skoglund’s dog exploring the lakeside terrain, and Howard enjoying the water shirtless.
“Very blessed to say the least!” she captioned one post, and the sentiment was clear in every frame.
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The lakeside content resonated with fans who have followed their relationship closely since draft night, when Skoglund’s emotional reaction to Howard’s selection became a viral moment.
Why Has Skyler Skoglund Become a Fan Favorite Since Draft Night?
While Howard endured the anxiety of waiting through Day 1 and Day 2 of the draft, Skoglund became an unexpected internet sensation. Her approach wasn’t flashy or attention-seeking. Instead, it was her genuine warmth and quiet support that captured viewers’ attention.
She also documented Howard’s emotional celebration with longtime friend and now-teammate Jack Sawyer, who was selected earlier by the Steelers. The connection between Howard and Sawyer adds another layer to the story. Her presence at both draft night and throughout the offseason has kept the young quarterback in the spotlight even before he takes his first professional snap.
Last month, they attended a country music concert together, both dressed in matching black outfits. Skoglund shared a carousel of images from the evening, featuring stage-side poses, cowgirl caps, and concert lighting.
“Nothing screams summer more than country music!!!” she wrote alongside the concert photos.
As the Steelers prepare for training camp, Howard’s offseason has balanced preparation with relaxation. The combination of focused work and genuine downtime suggests a mature approach to his transition to professional football. With Skoglund consistently supporting him through each milestone, Howard enters his rookie season with a strong foundation both on and off the field.
